For most travelers, Chisinau often seems to be a soviet-looking city - and that is definitely fair enough. It could be explained by the fact that Chisinau was badly damaged in Second World War times, and most buildings were replaced by new, soviet ones. Nowadays, most of these buildings look quite grey and even scary, especially for the locals, but for those who are interested in Communist architecture, they are becoming more and more attractive.
From the 1990s, most of Chisinau's soviet hotels were becoming private and the owners started expensive reconstructions to get rid of the all ”soviet”, but soon they realized that these ”soviet things” were attracting more and more tourists.
A very nice example of that is the building of Chisinau Hotel.
Chisinau Hotel occupies the central position right at the beginning of the main boulevard, so it is impossible to not see a 5-floors grey-tiled hotel with a communist star right on the top of the building.
Even if you don't plan to stay in that hotel, I really suggest you walk around it and go inside. Trust me, almost nothing has changed from Soviet times -- all these lamps, chairs, doors and elevators!
I suggest you ask the reception to show you quickly around the upper floors, just to see their corridors and even the rooms inside. You will see soviet curtains, TVs, fridges, carpets... everything around will be soviet.
A trip back in time, no doubt!
Bulevardul Constantin Negruzzi 7
MDL
no-price
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Marlene Bar" in Chisinau might not even have the best cocktails in town (although I like them), but the atmosphere of this European-style bar is worth it!
by
"Cărturești Books" in Chisinau has everything from books, posters, board games, magnets... I esp. like the reading area where you can sit with a book.
by
"Fuior Restaurant" in Chișinău is all about the package. They bring you a Michelin-Star restaurant experience to Moldovan flavors. Try the black dumplings!
by
"Madam Wong Restaurant" in Chișinău makes the best Asian food in town, easily! My favorites include the Tom Yum, the Spinach Soup & the Duck Spring Roll...
by
If there's one place you need to check into after you arrive at Chișinău, it's "Wine Shop Pușkin St." Expect to find great prices for simply amazing wines!
by
"Yoga Surya" in Chisinau is run by Igor. He speaks Romanian and a little English. He's very helpful, friendly and the prices are very reasonable!
by
"Valea Morilor Park" in the heart of Chisinau is a great recreational spot for a hot summer day. Half the city is here but you'll find your quiet spot!
by
"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
by
"Buiucani District" in Chisinau is the only part of the city were old village houses and churches still exist. I like it because I've lived here forever...
by
Chisinau's main "Train Station" is a must-see spot -- I always try to pass through it with my tours. The large soviet square is also worth looking at...
by
"La Izvor" in Chisinau is one of the most beautiful but still underestimated green areas in the city. You can even see people swimming in the lake here...
by
The "Church of Transfiguration" in Chisinau is unique in that its depiction of hell is very modern; I can hardly believe they allowed it to be painted...
by
87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 87 Insider Tips